Graduation week
WELCOME FAMILIES
Welcome to Parris Island, where "We Make Marines." Family Day is a special opportunity to celebrate your recruit's incredible journey through 13 weeks of rigorous training, culminating in their transformation into a United States Marine. As you step onto this historic depot, you'll witness the pride, discipline, and commitment that define the Marine Corps. Explore the life of a recruit, connect with other Marine families, and take part in events that honor the legacy of over 100 years of making Marines. We are thrilled to welcome you to the Marine Corps family and invite you to join us in celebrating this monumental achievement. Semper Fidelis!
Schedule: Graduation Events and Activities
The Event Schedule provides an overview of graduation week activities at MCRD Parris Island, helping families plan their visit with confidence. View key dates, ceremony times, and important events so you don’t miss any meaningful moments during your recruit’s milestone week.
Plan Your Trip
Visiting MCRD Parris Island
Travel & Accommodations
The Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Travel & Accommodations page helps recruit families plan their visit to MCRD Parris Island by offering travel assistance, lodging options, and rental services. It highlights the full-service ITT/All Points Travel office to assist with flights, hotels, and car rentals, details on mobility and canopy rentals, and on-base lodging choices like Inns of the Corps Beaufort, Irby’s Inn, the Osprey Inn, and the Parris Island RV Park.
Dining Options
Explore the dining options available during your visit to MCRD Parris Island, including casual eateries, sit-down restaurants, and convenient grab-and-go choices. Whether you’re planning a Family Day meal or a quick bite between events, you’ll find options to fit your schedule and preferences.
Arrival & Parking
Please allow extra time for security checks at the gate. Valid identification is required for all adults entering the depot. Follow the signs and directions from Military Police to designated parking areas near the ceremony sites.
What To Bring
- Comfortable Shoes: Parris Island is a walking campus. You will be on your feet frequently, so prioritize comfort.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: South Carolina weather can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before you pack.
- Cameras: Capture the memories! Photography is encouraged in most public areas.
- Hydration: Bring water bottles, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Honor, Courage, and Commitment
The emotions you feel today-pride, relief, and joy-are shared by generations of families who have stood where you stand today. Your Marine has not just completed a training course; they have been forged in a furnace of shared hardship. They now embody the core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. As you walk the grounds of Parris Island, take a moment to reflect on the history and the brotherhood/sisterhood your Marine is now a part of. This is a defining moment in their life, and your support has made it possible.
